Torrens and Doherty lead tributes to Loughrey

Cricketer Dessie Loughrey who played for the North West in their Guinness Cup triumph of 1966 has died at the age of 75.

A top order batsman, Loughrey played with great distinction with Limavady and Ballyspallen, holding a unique record at the time of scoring consecutive hundreds when Limavady returned to senior cricket.

Guinness Cup team mate Roy Torrens paid tribute to Loughrey saying: “Dessie was a very quiet, unassuming cricketer who valued his wicket dearly.

“He wasn’t afraid to graft for his runs, and played the cut shot particularly effectively.

“I remember him taking a vital catch in the deep during our Guinness Cup campaign in a match against Leinster.

“It was a real skier and as we congratulated him, he declared that he was very relieved to see the ball getting smaller and smaller as it descended from a great height.

“I’d like to pass on my sincere condolences to all his family members at this very difficult time.”

Cricket Ireland President Joe Doherty also passed on the condolences of the Irish cricket family saying: “He was a real gentleman and a very successful cricketer.

“I remember he often batted without gloves, and was a great accumulator of runs during his career.

“He was also a hugely influential greyhound trainer and breeder and enjoyed great success in this arena.

“The thoughts and prayers of all the North West and Irish cricketing fraternity are with his family at this sad time.

May his gentle soul Rest In Peace.”

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